Category: Uncategorized

Just the Getaway You Need: July’s Smoothie of the Month

Picture this: You. In a hammock. Subtle sun shining down. All is quiet aside from the sound of chirping exotic birds, a light breeze, and the creaking of your hammock swaying slightly back and forth. Next to you in this tropical oasis is the most vibrant blue body of sparkling clear water, such a lovely shade of aquamarine. Beneath the shallow surface you can see little fish swimming around, brightly colored. The sun feels great, and you’re staying quite cool with an amazingly delicious beverage in hand. It resembles a fancy exotic beach drink, yet you feel it invigorating your body with energy and nutrients. Bananas, coconut milk, and fresh pineapple blend together nicely amidst the juice from sweet oranges, creating a refreshing, lightly-sweet and perfectly tropical experience. The addition of Blue Majik spirulina make the beverage a detoxifying and energizing powerhouse that perfectly matches the serene tint of the adjacent sparkling blue lagoon. All is well. You are nourished, relaxed, and rejuvenating your body and mind, sip by sip.

The Blue Lagoon Smoothie: just the summer getaway you need. At Basil Bandwagon Natural Market only for the month of July. Get it while you can!

Want to more about Blue Majik? Carolyn and Jenna dove into E3 products last year to find out more!

July 6, 2018
Build A Better Morning Beverage: 10 Secret Breakfast Drink Ingredients With Benefits

By Jenna Kohler, Certified Health Coach

Tired? Stressed? Allergies? Emotionally burnt out? Dried out? Sluggish? Brain Fog? Digestive discomfort?

Morning time is an opportunity to fuel and reset your body with nutrients and substances needed to power through the day. We all want to feel good, but sometimes your morning smoothie or cup of coffee just doesn’t quite pack the punch you are looking for to support your wellbeing. In that case, we have some recommendations for you based on your goals.

These are 10 of our favorite “secret” ingredients to sneak into your breakfast drink for added benefits. These can be added to your coffee or smoothie and many also work well in a tea or juice.

1.) For aches/pains & general stress

CW Chocolate Mint Hemp Extract Oil: This complex oil delivers a spectrum of valuable phytocannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and more in a tasty mint chocolate flavor option. Combat inflammation, addressing aches and pains, and general stress from the root cause by nourishing your endocannabinoid system. (Source: CWHemp.com)

2.) For chronic “burn out” & “wired & tired” feelings

Ashwagandha: This adaptogenic herb has been used for centuries for its many benefits, some of which claim to be stress/neuro-protection, immune strengthening following illness, and enhancing physical stamina. (Source: Urban Moonshine.com)

3.) For chronic stress, immune & digestive distress

Oregon’s Wild Harvest Count to Zen: Help your body adapt to stress and support your adrenal system with this biodynamic herbal tonic uniquely curated by @OregonsWildHarvest. The blend includes a combination of adaptogenic herbs in a formula to deliver true “Zen”: Ashwagandha, Holy Basil Leaf, Fresh Licorice Root, and Fresh Astragalus Root. (Source: OregonsWildHarvest.com)

4.) For a lacking libido, hormonal support & general fatigue

Whole World Botanicals Maca: Loaded with vitamin c and critical minerals like copper and iron, maca is a root considered one of the world’s greatest known superfoods. It is an endocrine adaptogen that has been shown to help increase blood flow, sexual energy, and even boost mood. (Source: WholeWorldBotanicals.com)

5.) For repairing brittle hair/skin/nails & addressing immune & digestive distress

Collagen Powder: Collagen is the natural building block of our skin, hair, nails, bones, and joints. Many diets today do not contain enough collagen for our bodies to synthesize. There is much research that demonstrates daily use of collagen can help with skin, joint, bone, tendon, cartilage health as well as sleep and digestive support. (Source: VitalProteins.com)

6.) For allergies, inflammation, and nutritional needs

Bee Pollen: Bee pollen comes from our friendly buzzing friends, the honeybees. It has demonstrated itself to be a wonderful substance for allergy relief, and packs a serious punch of vitamins, minerals, proteins, lipids, and fatty acids, enzymes, and bioflavonoids. (Source: FoodMatter.com)

7.) For energy & exercise performance

Cordyceps: Cordyceps are part of the medicinal mushroom family. They are well known for increasing energy levels, fighting general stress and aging, as well as free radicals. Many praise it for being an effective energy-stimulating alternative to caffeine. (Source: Fungi.com)

8.) For emotional support

Flower Remedies: “The original Bach Flower Remedies gently restore the balance between mind and body by casting out negative emotions such as fear, worry, hatred and indecision which interfere with the equilibrium of the being as a whole. The Bach Flower Remedies allow peace and happiness to return to the sufferer so that the body is free to heal itself. The Bach Flower Remedies are made from wild flowers and preserved in grape-based brandy and are safe for the whole family including pets*.” (Source: BachFlower.com)

9.) Energy & metabolic support

MCT Oil: “Unlike sugars or carbohydrates that spike your blood sugar and can lead to a crash, Brain Octane oil is rapidly absorbed by your body and converted into brain-fueling, fat-burning ketone energy.” (Source: Bulletproof.com)

10.) Focus & Concentration

Herbalist & Alchemist Focus Formula: Reducing your consumption of refined sugar, artificial colors, preservatives, and flavorings in combination with the addition of this herbal blend formulated with hawthorn, lemon balm, bacopa, ginko, and skullcap has been shown to promote focused concentration. (Source: Herbalist-Alchemist.com)

An addition of one of these powerful natural products into your morning beverage just might bring the added benefits you need to power through your day. Come into one of our locations today to talk to one of our friendly, knowledgeable Wellness Ambassadors about which one might be beneficial for your wellness goals.

The information is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and are not intended as medical advice.

*FYI: We carry specific formulas for pets that are mixed in a glycerin base rather than alcohol.

June 22, 2018
Stock on your favorite June Sale Items

Maybe these are your go-to favorites, or maybe you have been wanting to try them. Now is the time! These awesome products are priced at a whopping 25% until June 30th, 2018.

Here’s what we have to offer:

We can’t get enough of Plus CBD‘s Extra Strength Balm. This stuff seems to soothe everything from joint pain, to rashes and chapped lips. Everyone has their favorite use for this potent, slightly-minty product.

Carlson‘s classic Cod Liver Oil is easy to take AND it’s got a great lemon flavor that will make you forget this is fish oil.

Charlotte’s Web CBD Hemp Capsules, 35+ are easy to take and pack a solid dose.

Nordic Naturals Ultimate Omega: This is our “desert island fish oil”. If you had to take one Omega supplement- this one covers all the bases.

June 18, 2018
Father’s Day: Sunday June 17th

Plan ahead to surprise Dad with all the goods he deserves!

For the Foodie Dad

Bring him in for lunch or dinner in our cafe – or order out for a picnic!

We recommend: Our famous Fire Wrap & a Blueberry Blast smoothie, paired with solar-popped Bjorn Qorn and Locktown Farm Kombucha!

For the Fitness Dad

Give him the gift of good health with a selection of quality supplements!

We recommend: Plant Fusion Chocolate Plant Protein Powder, Megafood’s Men’s Multivitamin, Basil Bandwagon Men’s Multi & Superieur Electrolyte Powder

For the Outdoorsy Dad

Give him the gift of nature’s bounty with a selection of fresh goods!

We recommend: A selection of his favorite organic fruits & veggies, Nantucket Spider Tick Repellant, Incrediwear Trek Socks, and one of our stainless steel water bottles.

For the Well-Groomed Dad

Give him the gift of premium body care with a selection of clean products!

We recommend: Badger Men’s Beard Oil, Every Man Jack Shower Gel, John Masters Organics 2 in 1 moisturizer/aftershave & Zum Goats Milk Soap bar.

June 6, 2018
Introducing June’s Smoothie: Strawberry Milkshake

Summer is ALMOST here! And what says “summer” more than fresh STRAWBERRIES or a cool, refreshing drink?!

This June, we fully support reaching for something cool, creamy, and berry-ish, but suggest skipping the sugar-laden, artificially dyed, nutritionally-deplete milkshakes from the local drive-thru. Instead, choose our Strawberry Milkshake Smoothie! It’s dairy-free, has zero added sugar, and totally “hits-the-spot”! Enjoy the sweet taste of strawberries mixed with creamy mango and nutrient-dense MCT oil (from coconuts). It’s just the pick-me-up you need and the treat you deserve!

June 1, 2018
Memorial Day: Remembering Together
Most of us know Memorial Day weekend as a time to ‘kick off’ the unofficial start to summer with barbecues, beach days, bike rides, and boat rides. We celebrate with lots of food, fun, and festivities. But what is Memorial Day? Do we know what we are actually celebrating?

Many people are easily confused by the holidays we have in the U.S. honoring military service members. So let’s take a moment to break those down here:
- There’s a day for those who have served = Veterans Day
- There’s a day for those who are currently serving = Armed Forces Day
- And there’s a day for those who died in service = Memorial Day
Take a moment now to share this with a friend or loved one. Let’s remind ourselves why we have this ‘extra day off’ this weekend. It’s a time for us to remember the many freedoms we enjoy because of a brave few who dedicated their lives to our country and who died too soon from wounds seen and unseen.

This is an opportunity to reflect on gratitude – that word and concept that is so important when it comes to wellbeing. Memorial Day demonstrates how we as a nation honor the people who pledged their lives to protect us. With this in mind, remember not just the lost heroes, but also the families they left behind. Parents, grandparents spouses, fiancés, children, siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and entire family units have been permanently changed by a knock on the door. For these many folks, this holiday – and every other – presents an absence of a precious loved one and a reminder of their hero’s legacy.

In the name of gratitude and wellbeing for all, let’s toast to this Memorial Day with tribute, pride, and festivity for the families of the fallen and the legacies of our fallen heroes.

Cheers.

Written By Jenna Kohler, MA, CHC, Wellness Ambassador
May 24, 2018
What Mom Deserves This Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day is the time to honor someone who devoted themselves to making sure you were warm, safe and happy. Take the time to give back to this special person this May 13th. Say “thank you” and “I love you” with perfectly curated products made with ethics, care, and love.

Here are some ideas of gift bundles to get you inspired. Need help finding these or making alternative additions? Come talk to one of our friendly team members 🙂

1.) CHOCOLATE: how could you go wrong with chocolate? We have local, organic, vegan, sugar free, and fair trade options to fit mom’s needs.

2.) COSMETICS: Safe scents and clean makeup are luxurious and a real treat.

3.) CANDLES: The freshest scents that burn clean and lighten the air are all we carry.

4.) LUXURY BODY PRODUCTS: Pamper mom with luxury body products that will freshen her look and make her feel extra special.

5.) WASTE FREE CONTAINERS: If mom likes to cook or she eats on-the-go alot, these make great gifts.

6.) BOOKS: Inspire mom to achieve her best sense of wellness with a good new read.

7.) Wellness: Treat Mom to Supplements that will make her feel and look her best!

April 24, 2018
EarthFest Live Music Line Up

Basil Bandwagon Natural Market

EarthFest

Live Music Line Up

May 5, 2018

10:00am – 6:00pm

@ The Historic Dvoor Farm, 111 Mine Street, Flemington, NJ 08822

Don’t miss this exciting live musical experience as part of our giant 25th Anniversary celebration, featuring big bands:

Joe Stuby & Rocking Horse

PsycheFunkaBlueseDelic-Rock ‘n Roll

Enjoy a sound deeply rooted in the blues with a hard hitting heavy funk/rock groove.

Some Like It Hot

Gypsy Jazz

Some Like It Hot Club is a Gypsy Jazz band based out of New Jersey.

Forget the Whale

Blues, Rock, Alternative, R&B, Country, Funk & Nu-Metal Mash-Up

A four piece hailing primarily from the 6th Borough: America’s Golden Door, Jersey City. Forget the Whale includes members Alishia Taiping (lead vocals, bass) Dan Pieraccini (bass, keys, vocals), Peter Durning (guitar, harmonica) and AJ Zienowicz (drums, vocals). It’s been said, of all the things Forget the Whale has, a ‘sound’ is not one of them. It’s not that they have no sound: blues, rock, alternative, R&B, country, funk and nu-metal all become ingredients for Forget the Whale’s veritable witches’ brew.

Mother Nature’s Child

Classic Rock with a touch of Psychadellia, Folk, Blues, Jazz & Country

Take in the cool vibes and beats from this local five-piece band from Hunterdon County.

Magnificent Mancini Brothers

All Americana

Hear from veteran players from the NJ music scene have collided in mid-air and will be performing without a net!

…and acoustic artists:

Macheis Wind

Humanitarian Musician

Indulge in the worldly sounds of a guitarist committed to showing us that the world changes and strengthens us.

Becky Ciurczak

Folk Singer/Songwriter

Enjoy peaceful rhythms from one of Hunterdon County’s favorite acoustic soloists.

April 17, 2018
Introducing: The Basil Bandwagon Smoothie!

This month, we’re celebrating 25 year in business! We couldn’t pass up the opportunity to name this month’s special smoothie after our own brand, Basil Bandwagon. We took it a step further and decided to incorporate basil as an ingredient because it’s just that delicious. This favorite herb of ours that inspired our store name is both versatile and refreshing. It can be incorporated into savory or sweet dishes and treats. In this case, we’ve partnered it with creamy almond milk, a dash of ceylon cinnamon, a small spoonful of Vermont maple syrup, creamy bananas, and sweet mango. The end result is a refreshing cup of celebratory Spring that your belly will simply love. Come and get one while they’re available this month and celebrate our 25th Anniversary with us!

April 4, 2018
Whole 30: The Reset You Might Need

This blog post chronicles the experience of one of our brave produce team members, Cheryl, who recently experimented with the Whole30 diet.

* * *

Make sure your food is truly nourishing you.

Being constantly inside during the winter can encourage poor habits, such as sedentary behavior and unhealthy food choices. Sometimes even when we think we are making good choices, our bodies still don’t feel well due to food sensitivities. Foods that are labeled as nutritious, such as “whole grain,” “calcium-rich” or “vegan” may be causes for bloating, headaches, brain fog, low mood, aches, pains and a plethora of other symptoms.

This is where eliminating these culprits is a great way to start off the spring. With this in mind, a guide to help you do this is essential. One method available that I recently used is the Whole30 plan, named for its thirty day span and menu of unprocessed whole foods.

This plan really needs preparation, but in spite of that, I did it spur of the moment. I woke up one morning, tired of feeling bad after years of feeling tired, foggy, bloated, having periodic headaches and trouble sleeping. I stopped eating questionable foods that day and had the good fortune to work in place that sells healthy food and the Whole30 book. The plan’s goal is to create a healthy relationship with food, boost sluggish metabolism, improve the digestive system, boost immunity and eliminate chronic inflammation, thereby eliminating numerous conditions.

My diet generally consists of organic foods, not a lot of refined sugar and all of the food groups–It’s no accident that I work in a health food store. The Whole30 requires that for thirty days you eliminate sugar, alcohol, grains, dairy and legumes. This includes peanuts. Which means peanut butter. Which would have been the deal breaker, if I wasn’t feeling so bad.

The book has all of the information necessary and also gives you a day-by-day idea of symptoms may occur as you go through the month. I suffered many of these things and the knowledge made it a little more bearable. Even after three days I was fatigued and headachy from withdrawal–but not bloated. After that, there was no turning back.

I don’t miss many of the things and the simple fact that I don’t want to feel that way again has made me resist the foods that make me unwell. I’ve been off the Whole30 for a few weeks now and feel much better overall. I was sure the moment I was done I would jump into a vat of peanut butter, but nope–I wanted rice. Just rice. With pepper. It was marvelous.

So, give it a go. Start off Spring by eliminating food sensitivities and allowing the food you eat to do its job and nourish you! If you have any questions about the Whole30 or my experience, you can find me in the Flemington store produce aisle 🙂

Cheryl shared this amazing chicken recipe to help you find success like she did!

Cheryl & John’s Whole30 Approved Chicken

9 chicken thighs

1 lb Niman All Natural Italian sausage links

2 red peppers

2 green peppers

4 potatoes, quartered

8 oz. mushrooms (baby ‘bella or button)

1 large onion

1/2 head Garlic

1 large can Muir Glen fire roasted tomatoes

2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

Parsley

Oregano

Basil

Black pepper

Frontier Poultry Seasoning

1/2 cup white wine (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350.

Chop the peppers, onions, mushrooms and Garlic and add to a large roasting pan. Add the quartered potatoes, tomatoes, vinegar and wine (if using). Season to taste with the herbs and stir to combine. Nestle the sausage in the mixture. Season the chicken with poultry seasoning and arrange on top of the pan. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes to an hour. Serve.

March 28, 2018